Scraping

Scraping, also known as the Gratson technique, is one of the unique services offered at Merryman Chiropractic. Scraping involves the use of stainless steel tools to break up scar tissue, relieve muscle tension, increase mobility and reduce pain.

What is Scraping? The scraping process typically takes between 3 to 10 minutes and may require more than one session. Stainless steel tools in a variety of shapes and sizes are used in the scraping process. The scraping process begins with a few “scanning” strokes in which the tool is rubbed over the area of treatment to identify adhesions (buildups of scar tissue) and/or muscle tension. Following these preliminary strokes, Dr. Merryman will apply more pressure in a scraping motion to break up scar tissue and release muscle tension in the area of treatment. The scraping process may be mildly uncomfortable at first, but this discomfort is minor in comparison to reduction/elimination of pain and other benefits that scraping provides.

Why Scraping? Soft tissue injuries, or injuries to the the tendons, ligaments, fascia, and muscle tissues are a common occurrence. Most often, these injuries are sustained through overuse or in some cases, trauma such as that caused by a car crash. After an injury to the soft tissue, adhesions, or buildups of scar tissue, are formed. These adhesions can be very painful and can lead to decreased mobility in the area of the injury. Scraping is used to break up formations of scar tissue leading to increased mobility and range of motion in patients. In addition, scraping reduces or eliminates pain associated with soft tissue injuries. In addition, scraping is used to reduce muscle tension. For this reason, scraping is often paired with chiropractic adjustment in order to increase the effectiveness of the adjustment.Tight muscles can offset a manipulation by the pulling bone back out of place. However, if muscle tension is released prior to the adjustment, it is more likely that the bone will not shift back out of place, making the adjustment more effective. ​Finally, scraping increases blood flow to the area of treatment. This is the most immediate benefit of the scraping treatment. Increased blood flow to the area of treatment aids in the healing process and nourishes the surrounding tissues.